[He can't imagine being in that situation. Well, actually, he can. The abject loneliness. The fear of being forgotten. He's lived that, in his own way, and if that were to be magnified so many times over, he'd go so deep into his own head that he'd be inconsolable. He'd want it all to end. He's sure of it.]

Oh, Eichi...

[He leans into his touch, tears pricking at the corners of his eyes, quickly blinked away.]

I want more than anything to stay by your side, in this and in every world. But I understand your fears... they're very logical, really. You've seen it happen, and nothing can stop it from happening again.

[Trying a smile, he leans in to press his lips to Eichi's cheek.]

They're not childish. You've thought many foolish things in our time together, but this isn't one of them. You want to hold on to this life. You know, it's just the same as at home, where every day I prayed you would be at school, and I wouldn't have to hear the news that you would never come again. It may seem foolish for someone who lives as fully as I pretend to to think something like that, but you frightened me so often.

[Nuzzling, he turns Eichi's face back toward him.]

I may be a "magician", but even I make mistakes. Was it a mistake, coming here? Being brought here, finding Eichi's arms, and never wanting to leave them? I've been so... [He huffs a laugh.] ...so jealous. I've been a fool. When all you've done is try to distribute your love around so you won't get hurt. How noble of you, Eichi! You're probably struggling here, too, to understand everyone, to communicate how you feel without hurting others. To succeed without leaving bodies in your wake. You've always had trouble reaching out. Can I beg you for a small thing? When you're afraid, will you tell me? You can call me! Or write it in the exchange diary! Or shout it to the heavens, and no matter where I am, I'll know. And I'll be right there. [He puts a hand over Eichi's heart.] When you feel your heart beat a little harder.